Caregiving and post-caregiving experiences of midlife and older gay men and lesbians.

PURPOSE

This study examines the experiences of midlife and older gay men and lesbians caring for chronically ill, same-sex partners. This study also accounts for their experiences in "post-caregiving," or the period following the cessation of care.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Using a qualitative methodology, in-depth interviews were conducted with nineteen gay men and lesbians over 50.

RESULTS

Respondents reported similar experiences in caregiving as those in previous studies looking at caregiving for older adult spouses and relatives (including physical and emotional strains). Similarly, respondents experienced loneliness and depression following the loss of the caregiving role. Unique aspects of the experience for gay and lesbian caregivers caring for same-sex partners, however, involved their interactions with formal and informal support persons and services and their long-term planning and decision-making processes.

IMPLICATIONS

In light of their experiences, respondents offered their opinions about formal support services and professionals as well as their suggestions for changes that should be made to these as well as larger systems. Their suggestions and experiences guided the implications offered for health and human services.